Loaded Cheese Fries

Loaded Cheese Fries is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 300 calories per serving. Recipe by Delish on YouTube.

Prep: 25 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 50 min

Cost: $5.15 total, $1.29 per serving

Ingredients

  • 4 large Russet Potatoes (peeled and cut into 1/4‑inch sticks)
  • 4 cups Vegetable Oil (for deep frying; use a high‑smoke‑point oil)
  • 1 tsp Fine Sea Salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

  1. Cut Potatoes

    Peel the potatoes and slice them into uniform 1/4‑inch sticks so they cook evenly.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Soak

    Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water and let them soak for 15 minutes to remove excess starch.

    Time: PT15M

  3. Drain and Dry

    Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Any moisture will cause oil splatter.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Heat Oil for First Fry

    Add the vegetable oil to the pot and heat to 325°F (163°C). Use the thermometer to check the temperature.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 325°F

  5. First Fry (Blanch)

    Working in small batches, fry the potatoes for 3–4 minutes until they are just tender but not colored. Remove with a slotted spoon and let drain on paper towels.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 325°F

  6. Rest

    Allow the blanched potatoes to rest for 5 minutes. This helps develop a fluffy interior.

    Time: PT5M

  7. Heat Oil for Second Fry

    Raise the oil temperature to 375°F (191°C).

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 375°F

  8. Second Fry (Crisp)

    Fry the potatoes again, 2–3 minutes, until golden brown and crisp. Remove and drain on fresh paper towels.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 375°F

  9. Season

    While still hot, sprinkle the fries with fine sea salt (and garlic powder, if using). Toss to coat evenly.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
300
Protein
4g
Carbohydrates
45g
Fat
12g
Fiber
4g

Dietary info: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Last updated: April 28, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Loaded Cheese Fries

Recipe by Delish

Crispy, golden‑brown homemade French fries that are perfect as a side dish or snack. This easy recipe uses a double‑fry method for maximum crunch and minimal sogginess.

EasyAmericanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
37m
Prep
15m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 2m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$5.15
Total cost
$1.29
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Cut potatoes into uniform sticks
  • Soak potatoes to remove starch
  • Dry potatoes thoroughly before frying
  • First fry at 325°F to cook interior
  • Second fry at 375°F for crisp exterior

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can cause severe burns; keep children and pets away from the stove.
  • Never leave heating oil unattended.
  • Use a thermometer to avoid overheating oil beyond its smoke point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of French fries in American cuisine?

A

French fries, often called "fries" in the United States, became popular in the early 20th century as a fast‑food staple. Though their exact origin is debated between Belgium and France, they have become an iconic side dish accompanying burgers, sandwiches, and diners across America.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of French fries in American cuisine?

A

In the United States, you’ll find shoestring fries in the Northeast, thick steak‑cut fries in the Midwest, and seasoned Cajun‑spiced fries in the South. Each region adds its own twist of cut size and seasoning.

cultural
Q

How are French fries traditionally served in American diners?

A

American diners typically serve French fries hot, lightly salted, and often with ketchup, malt vinegar, or a side of cheese sauce. They may be placed in a paper basket or on a plate alongside a burger or sandwich.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations are French fries traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

French fries are a staple at casual gatherings such as barbecues, sports‑watch parties, and fast‑food meals. They’re also a common side at family dinners and late‑night snack runs.

cultural
Q

What other American dishes pair well with homemade French fries from the Delish channel?

A

Homemade French fries pair perfectly with classic American burgers, chicken tenders, hot dogs, and milkshakes. They also complement chili, poutine, or a simple grilled cheese sandwich.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for French fries versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditionally, French fries are made from starchy potatoes (like Russet) and a neutral high‑smoke‑point oil such as vegetable or peanut oil. Substitutes include sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor or canola oil if you prefer a lower‑cost oil.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making French fries at home using the Delish recipe?

A

Common mistakes include not soaking the potatoes (which leads to gummy fries), failing to dry them before frying (causing oil splatter), and overcrowding the pot (which drops oil temperature and makes fries soggy). Following the double‑fry method at the correct temperatures prevents these issues.

technical
Q

Why does this French fries recipe use a double‑fry technique instead of a single fry?

A

The double‑fry technique first cooks the interior at a lower temperature, then crisps the exterior at a higher temperature. This creates fries that are fluffy inside and crunchy outside, which a single fry cannot achieve consistently.

technical
Q

Can I make French fries ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes. After the first fry, you can cool the fries, store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, and finish with the second fry just before serving. For longer storage, freeze the blanched fries on a tray and transfer to a zip‑top bag.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making French fries using the Delish method?

A

After the first fry, the potatoes should be pale and just tender. After the second fry, they should be golden‑brown, crisp to the bite, and have a slight sheen from the oil. The interior should be fluffy, not mushy.

technical
Q

How do I know when French fries are done cooking in the Delish recipe?

A

The fries are done when they turn a uniform golden‑brown color, feel crisp when touched, and float to the surface of the oil. A quick taste test should reveal a crunchy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Delish specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Delish specializes in quick, approachable home‑cooking videos that cover a wide range of cuisines, from comfort foods to trending recipes, often focusing on easy techniques for everyday cooks.

channel
Q

What is the cooking philosophy and style of the YouTube channel Delish?

A

Delish emphasizes simple, step‑by‑step instructions, minimal equipment, and flavor‑forward dishes that can be prepared in under an hour. Their style blends clear visuals with upbeat music to keep viewers engaged.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Chorizo Chili Cheese Fries
17

Chorizo Chili Cheese Fries

Crispy double-fried potatoes topped with a rich, meaty chorizo-beef chili and a creamy, spicy cheddar cheese sauce. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh green onions for color and flavor. The ultimate indulgent shareable snack or meal.

1 hr 35 minServes 6$32
American (Tex-Mex influence)
Homemade double meat tacos with fries and cheese sauce
13

Homemade double meat tacos with fries and cheese sauce

Indulgent tacos made with spiced ground beef and chicken, served with crispy fries and a creamy cheese sauce. Easy to prepare at home and perfect for a friendly dinner.

1 hr 38 minServes 5$20
Mexican
Texas Twinkies (Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Jalapeños) with Triple-Cooked Fries & Cheese Sauce
13

Texas Twinkies (Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Jalapeños) with Triple-Cooked Fries & Cheese Sauce

A game‑day snack combo featuring jalapeños stuffed with a creamy smoked brisket and cheese mixture, wrapped in crispy bacon, served alongside ultra‑crispy triple‑cooked fries and a rich cheese sauce. Perfect for football watch parties.

2 hrsServes 4$20
Tex-Mex
Double Cheeseburger with Homemade Potato Buns, Triple‑Cooked Crinkle‑Cut Fries, and Molecular‑Style American Cheese
14

Double Cheeseburger with Homemade Potato Buns, Triple‑Cooked Crinkle‑Cut Fries, and Molecular‑Style American Cheese

A restaurant‑style double cheeseburger featuring fluffy homemade potato‑brioche buns, a silky, melt‑perfect American‑style cheese made with sodium citrate, and ultra‑crisp triple‑cooked crinkle‑cut fries. The burger patty is a custom blend of short rib, brisket and chuck, hand‑ground and smashed to a juicy medium‑rare. All components are built from scratch for the ultimate nostalgic yet gourmet experience.

18 hrs 10 minServes 2$33
American
The Best Steak Loaded Fries Recipe Ever (Carne Asada Fries)
20

The Best Steak Loaded Fries Recipe Ever (Carne Asada Fries)

Crispy baked steak‑cut fries topped with perfectly seasoned skirt steak, fresh pico de gallo, and melted white cheddar. A hearty Tex‑Mex inspired dish that turns ordinary fries into a loaded masterpiece.

2 hrs 35 minServes 4$24
Tex-Mex
Loaded Broccoli & Cheese Potato Boats Recipe
9

Loaded Broccoli & Cheese Potato Boats Recipe

Crispy baked russet potatoes are hollowed out and filled with a rich mixture of butter, cream, sour cream, steamed broccoli, chives and cheddar cheese, then topped with more cheese and smoked paprika for a golden finish. Perfect as a hearty main or a satisfying side.

2 hrs 15 minServes 4$7
American
Ultimate Loaded Fries with Crispy Chicken, Smashed Beef Patty, Cheese Sauce & Chipotle Garlic Chili Mayo
4

Ultimate Loaded Fries with Crispy Chicken, Smashed Beef Patty, Cheese Sauce & Chipotle Garlic Chili Mayo

A decadent, crowd‑pleasing dish featuring golden crispy fries topped with double‑coated fried chicken, a smashed beef patty, a rich cheese sauce, and a smoky chipotle garlic chili mayo. Perfect for game night, parties, or a hearty family dinner.

1 hr 12 minServes 4$54
American
Loaded Cheese Fries on the Griddle (From Frozen French Fries)
2

Loaded Cheese Fries on the Griddle (From Frozen French Fries)

Crispy steak fries tossed in a fiery Nashville hot rub, smothered with a creamy cheese sauce, and topped with crispy bacon, green onions, and pickled banana peppers. Made entirely on a flat top griddle for maximum flavor and crunch.

45 minServes 1$14
American